Early detection allows DNR to treat zebra mussels in Rose Lake

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Early detection allows DNR to treat zebra mussels in Rose Lake
(Released September 30, 2011)

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced today that it will treat a small area of Rose Lake with a commonly used pesticide to kill recently discovered zebra mussels in the Otter Tail County lake.

DNR biologists conducted an extensive shoreline survey of the 1,200-acre lake on Wednesday, Sept. 28, and discovered a small number of juvenile zebra mussels in one very small area of the lake.

The DNR suspects the zebra mussels were transported recently to the lake on a boat lift. The small size of the mussels suggests they are not at a reproductive stage.

“This is an example of an early detection and rapid response to a zebra mussel discovery that might preclude an infestation,” said Luke Skinner, DNR invasive species unit supervisor. “It’s possible we can kill these mussels before they establish a reproducing population.”

The treatment will be conducted as early as next week. The DNR will apply copper sulfate, a commonly used chemical used to control snails that cause swimmers itch, in order to kill any zebra mussels in the area.

This technique has the potential to control small, isolated populations of unwanted mollusks, but has not been effective in eradicating large and established mussel populations.

The introduction of the invasive mussels in Rose Lake is under investigation by the DNR. It is illegal to possess, import, purchase, sell, propagate, transport or introduce invasive species into Minnesota waters. Violators can receive civil and criminal penalties.

All water related equipment, including boats, docks and boat lifts must be free of aquatic plants, zebra mussels and water before being transported in the state.

This is the first time the DNR will attempt to control a small isolated population of mussels in the state. After the treatment, Rose Lake will be put on a priority monitoring list and checked frequently for any more zebra mussels. If zebra mussels are discovered next open water season, Rose Lake will be designated as an infested water.